Source : IgMp Bureau
The Indian Navy has stepped in to salvage the TAPAS MALE (Medium Altitude Long Endurance) UAV program, seizing control of two prototypes for rigorous performance evaluation. This strategic move follows the Indian Army and Air Force distancing themselves due to technical deficiencies, primarily the UAV’s incapacity to attain a 30,000-foot altitude and sustain continuous operations for 24 hours.
A Naval Lifeline: TAPAS Enters Maritime Evaluation
Undeterred by past setbacks, the Navy is set to subject the TAPAS to intensive testing in maritime environments, focusing particularly on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Should the UAV meet the Navy’s expectations, it could mark a groundbreaking development, with the Navy potentially becoming the program’s inaugural customer, contemplating the procurement of a squadron comprising 12 units. This would be a significant shot in the arm for the TAPAS program, grappling with challenges in fulfilling initial requirements.
Aero India 2023 l Aerial coverage of ground and air display captured from indigenously developed medium altitude long endurance TAPAS UAV during rehearsal from height of 12000 feet today. @DRDO_India pic.twitter.com/NmGwBxsxwy
— Prasar Bharati News Services & Digital Platform (@PBNS_India) February 10, 2023
Navigating Challenges: Addressing Altitude and Endurance Hurdles
The Navy’s scrutiny, however, won’t be without hurdles. The Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), the program’s developer, must tackle altitude and endurance limitations head-on. This entails extensive testing of a new high-rated engine to enhance altitude performance and implementing measures for drag reduction, enabling extended cruise times above the 30,000 feet threshold.
Strategic Evaluation: Navy’s Cautious Stance on UAV Procurement
The Indian Navy’s decision to evaluate the TAPAS underscores its vigilant approach to UAV acquisitions. In a recent move, the Navy received Israeli Hermes-900 MALE UAVs named Drishti-10 Starliner, produced by Adani Elbit Advanced Systems India Limited in India under technology transfer through the Make in India initiative. These UAVs are currently undergoing performance assessments before any further procurement considerations are made.
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